MBG Programme in Bekasi Reaches 548,248 Beneficiaries
Bekasi Regency (ANTARA) - The Bekasi Regency Government in West Java states that the implementation of the flagship central government programme, Free Nutritious Meals (MBG), in the area has now reached 548,248 beneficiaries from various segments of society.
Bekasi Regency Secretary Endin Samsudin said this additional free nutritious food programme has been provided to a total of 453,594 pupils from early childhood education levels up to junior high school.
“Additionally, the programme has been expanded to also target 10,370 pregnant women, 19,891 breastfeeding mothers, and 64,393 toddlers,” he said in Cikarang on Tuesday.
He explained that the free nutritious meals programme serves as a strategic intervention targeting vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers, with a focus on the first 1,000 days of life as the main foundation in creating a quality generation.
His side recorded that there are currently 282 SPPG kitchen units spread across 90 village areas and 23 sub-districts. Of these, 92 units have obtained Standard Hygiene Sanitation (SLHS) certification.
“Bekasi Regency also records zero cases of food poisoning. We hope this achievement can continue to be improved to produce a highly competitive future generation of the nation,” he said.
Nevertheless, Endin admitted to still facing several challenges such as meeting sanitation standards, supply chain for raw materials, waste management, and strengthening coordination at the village and sub-district levels.
The local government is also pushing for accelerated regulations and support from the central government to strengthen programme implementation, including expanding beneficiaries and enhancing distribution of food based on local potential.
“Because this programme not only impacts health but also drives the local economy and food security,” he said.
He also emphasised that the success of the MBG programme greatly depends on synergy between the central government, regional government, and all related stakeholders.
“This is a long-term investment to create a healthy, intelligent, and competitive generation towards Golden Indonesia 2045,” he said.